This quote suggests that love, when viewed as a duty or obligation, becomes a safeguard against despair. It implies that love, when it is a choice or a fleeting feeling, can easily lead to despair when the feeling fades or the choice changes. However, when love is seen as a duty - something that we are obligated to maintain and uphold, regardless of our feelings or circumstances - it becomes a constant, a source of comfort and security that can help us ward off feelings of despair.
In essence, the quote is advocating for a love that is deliberate, intentional, and enduring. It argues for a love that is not dependent on emotions, which can be fickle and transient, but on a commitment that is unwavering and steadfast. This kind of love, according to the quote, is the only kind that can truly protect us from despair.
In today’s world, this idea can be applied in various ways. For instance, in romantic relationships, it suggests that lasting love is not just about feeling in love, but about choosing to love, even when the feelings are not as strong or when difficulties arise. It’s about seeing love as a duty, something that we need to work on and nurture, rather than something that just happens to us.
In terms of personal development, this quote can be a reminder that our relationships and the love we give and receive are crucial components of our well-being and happiness. It can encourage us to view love not as a passive emotion, but as an active duty - something that we need to consciously invest in and cultivate in order to protect ourselves from despair.
This can also extend beyond romantic love to include familial love, friendship, and even self-love. By viewing these forms of love as duties, we can ensure that they remain constant sources of joy and comfort in our lives, regardless of the challenges we may face.
